Connect with us

News

The world’s top service oriented Spa’s revealed: Maldives wins again

Published

on

One&Only Reethi Rah

Maldives Promotion House – The annual announcement of the World Luxury Spa Awards winners marks the highlight of a year-long search for the very best spas on the global front. Maldives offers number of world class spas and spas from Maldives were among the winners at this year’s awards.

  • One&Only Spa by ESPA Reethi Rah          Best Luxury Wellness Spa – World
  • Talise Spa at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi         Best Luxury Emerging Spa – Indian Ocean
  • Coco Spa Maldives                                        Best Luxury Fitness Spa – Indian Ocean
  • Araamu Spa Maldives                                    Best Luxury Wellness Spa – Indian Ocean
  • One&Only Spa by ESPA Reethi Rah           Best Luxury Beauty Spa – Indian Ocean
  • Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives                Best Luxury Emerging Spa – Maldives
  • Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives                Best Luxury Destination Spa – Maldives
  • Six Senses Spa Laamu, Maldives                Best Luxury Resort Spa – Maldives
  • Angsana Spa Velavaru Maldives                  Best Luxury Beauty Spa – Maldives

The World Luxury Spa Awards commends and recognise outstanding achievements in service excellence, giving thanks to spas that have excelled. The World Luxury Spa Awards programme reward those spas that have raised the bar of service excellence within a highly competitive industry over the past year. The World Luxury Spa Awards congratulate unsurpassed service excellence and put the spotlight on those spas representing only the finest standards.

The categories awarded in the 2013 World Luxury Spa Awards included Best Luxury Hotel Spa, Best Luxury Mineral Spring Spa, Best Luxury Safari Spa, Best Luxury Emerging Spa, Best Luxury Fitness Spa, Best Luxury Destination Spa, Best Luxury Wellness Spa, Best Luxury Resort Spa, Best Luxury Spa Group, Best Luxury Day Spa, Best Luxury Beauty Spa, Best Luxury Boutique Spa and Best Luxury Medical Spa.

“2012 has been a very interesting year for the spa industry, with many new spa additions and the level of competition where exceptional evident from the calibre of spas being nominated,” says Marinique de Wet, Executive Manager of the World Luxury Spa Awards. “We’ve never received so many nomination entries like we did this year, and it has been a truly thrilling experience to see who eventually came out on top!”

Open to luxury spas in the respective categories, the World Luxury Spa Awards™ are recognized and respected on the global front by the public and media at large and are universally acknowledged as the world’s leading awards initiative for luxury spas. France24 is the proud media partner to the World Luxury Spa Awards.

The winners and finalists were selected by means of an annual voting process where thousands of spa guests worldwide have been given the opportunity to vote online in order to have the fairest judging process possible. Competing spas in 2013 included small sized privately owned spas to globally renowned spa groups.

Official voting closed on the 18th of March and the response and comments from voters were phenomenal. Thousands of votes & feedback came in from across the globe and as a result key brands and independent spas were rewarded for their extraordinary efforts. Award winning spas are announced on a country, continent and global basis.They stood up to the highest expectations and where tested by discerning spa-goers looking for the ultimate experience where only the absolute best is acceptable.

Marinique de Wet, Executive Manager, World Luxury Spa Awards™ said: “The World Luxury Spa Awards™ is the highest accolade a spa can ever hope to receive. For participants the World Luxury Spa Awards™ challenge service excellence and highlight the importance of constant improvement. The Award truly puts the Award winning spas ahead of their peers from a marketing perspective. In addition to the honour, prestige and global exposure of winning a World Luxury Spa Award, winners share in fantastic marketing benefits including online profiles and marketing guides that further build staff moral and maintain credibility.

“Consumers are increasingly using the list of winners and finalists as a reliable guide and means of reassurance when choosing their next spa destination evident from increasing visits to the Awards website”, says de Wet.

“In these tough economic times our spas and wellness retreats have shown their anticipation to succeed and have come out even stronger than before. The World Luxury Spa Awards are there to recognise the very best of the best and raise the bar of service excellence even higher than before”, says Mrs Marinique de Wet. “We are delighted that the Spa Awards has become such an important highlight on the spa industry calendar and we are looking forward to an exciting 2014 registration year ahead”.

Recipients of this prestigious accolade see challenges as opportunities and stay ahead with strategic changes allowing facilities and service to stay on par with global trends. We congratulate all our winners further to this outstanding achievement.”

Awards

Dusit Thani Maldives ranked among Maldives’ top pools and spas in Travel + Leisure awards

Published

on

Dusit Thani Maldives has announced its recognition in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, earning two distinctions in the Maldives category.

The resort was ranked #6 in Maldives Best Resort Pools, while Devarana Spa was ranked #7 in Maldives Best Resort Spas.

Set on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene island escape where Thai-inspired gracious hospitality meets the natural beauty of the Maldives. The resort’s expansive pool, surrounded by tropical greenery and steps from the Indian Ocean, remains one of its most loved spaces for guests to relax, reconnect and enjoy the rhythm of island life.

The recognition for Devarana Wellness further highlights the resort’s focus on meaningful wellbeing experiences. Nestled among the island’s lush palms, the treetop treatment rooms offer a peaceful setting for restorative therapies, mindful rituals and wellness journeys inspired by nature.

“We are truly honoured to be recognised by Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager Maldives, Dusit International. “These awards mean a great deal to us because they reflect the experiences our guests continue to enjoy and appreciate. From relaxing poolside moments to deeply restorative wellness journeys, our team takes pride in creating memorable stays that feel both personal and connected to the beauty of our island.”

This latest recognition adds to Dusit Thani Maldives’ growing list of international accolades and reinforces the resort’s position as a leading luxury island retreat in the Maldives.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website.

Continue Reading

Family

Art, sport and island adventure shape JOALI Maldives Summer Camp 2026

Published

on

JOALI Maldives, the first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, has presented its Summer Camp 2026 programme, running from 1 July to 31 August 2026. Set against the backdrop of the Island of Joy, the immersive summer experience invites families to discover a world of creativity, adventure, culture and connection through an inspiring calendar of activities, workshops and exclusive residencies with internationally acclaimed artists, athletes and culinary talents.

Rooted in the resort’s joy of Creative Living philosophy, Summer Camp 2026 is designed for the whole family – a season of shared discovery where guests of all ages can engage with remarkable creators, explore new crafts and be inspired by extraordinary talent. From contemporary sculpture and heritage weaving to chocolate artistry and Olympic-level athletics, each residency offers a different lens through which to experience the world.

Younger guests aged 4 to 12 are also invited into a world of their own at Muramas Kids Club, where a dedicated programme of hands-on activities and island adventures runs throughout the summer, complementing the wider residency calendar and ensuring every member of the family finds their own moment of joy.

A remarkable group of creators, visionaries, and champions join JOALI Maldives, bringing new perspectives, creative practices and inspiring experiences to the island.

Aurélie Hoegy
Contemporary Artist and Designer | Residency: 16 – 21 July 2026

Aurélie Hoegy is a French multidisciplinary artist whose work explores the forms, textures and movement found throughout the natural world. Known for her handcrafted sculptural installations, including the JOALI Hammock at JOALI Maldives, Aurélie works with natural fibres and organic forms to create immersive pieces that invite curiosity, participation and discovery.

Workshops & Activities:

  • Tapestry Weaving Experience – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)
  • Illuminated Jellyfish Craft – Recommended for ages: 12+ years

Laima Laurina
Ceramic Artist and Sculptor | Residency: 30 July – 2 August 2026

Laima Laurina is a Latvian ceramic artist whose handcrafted porcelain creations are inspired by the textures, colours and quiet rhythms of the natural world. Laima explores the relationship between craftsmanship and creativity, transforming raw materials into delicate works that celebrate curiosity, care and attention to detail.

Workshops & Activities:

  • Porcelain Studio – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)

Hidhana Latheef
Heritage Artist and Designer | Residency: 7 – 10 August 2026

Hidhana Latheef is a Maldivian heritage craft artist and designer dedicated to preserving and reimagining the traditional art of Kasabu Viyun – an intricate weaving technique that combines gold and silver threads into decorative patterns passed down through generations.

Workshops & Activities:

  • Kasabu Viyun: Heritage Craft Workshop – Recommended for ages: 8+ years (Complimentary)

Nicola Adams Obe
Olympic Gold Medallist Boxer | Residency: 17 – 19 August 2026

Nicola Adams OBE is a double Olympic gold medallist and a celebrated athlete in British sporting history. Widely recognised for her determination and pioneering achievements, Nicola’s journey has inspired people around the world to pursue their goals with confidence and self-belief.

Workshops & Activities:

  • Train Like a Champion – Family fitness & boxing-inspired workshop – Recommended for ages: 8+ years (Complimentary)
  • Elite Fitness Session – Recommended for ages: 12+ years (Complimentary)

Melissa Coppel
Master Chocolatier and Pastry Chef | Residency: 22 – 26 August 2026

Melissa Coppel is a master chocolatier whose creations transform chocolate into expressions of flavour, craftsmanship and design. Her work explores the intersection of artistry and pâtisserie, where technique and creativity come together in unexpected ways.

Workshops & Activities:

  • Chocolate Ateliers – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)

Raya Mansoor
Contemporary Artist | Residency: 23rd–29th August 2026

Raya Mansoor is a Maldivian contemporary artist known for bold, expressive canvases that pulse with colour and emotion. Co-founder of Oevaali Art Shop and named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026, Raya brings her ongoing Avi series to JOALI Maldives, creating a new large-scale original work and inviting guests into her creative world.

Guests are also invited to attend an Artist Showcase & Exhibition – a curated presentation of works, including the piece created during her residency, hosted alongside an exclusive on-site guest event.

Muramas Kids’ Activities

To complement the artist and talent residencies, a rich programme of daily complimentary activities will also be available to all young guests at Muramas Kids Club.

Highlights include:

  • Laser Tag – Dodge, hide and tag your way through exciting team challenges.
  • Little Chefs – Discover the joy of cooking through fun hands-on culinary creations.
  • Polaroid Photography Workshop – Capture favourite island memories through instant photography.
  • DIY Mosaic Art – Design colourful masterpieces inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
  • Basket Weaving Workshop – Learn traditional weaving techniques and create your own keepsake.
  • Puppet Workshop & Performance – Craft unique puppets and bring stories to life through performance.
  • Tie-Dye Sessions – Twist, colour and create vibrant wearable artwork.
  • Eco Heroes: Trash to Treasure – Transform recycled materials into creative works while learning about sustainability.
  • Boduberu Workshop – Experience the rhythm and energy of traditional Maldivian drumming.
  • Glow Games – Enjoy interactive glow-in-the-dark games after sunset.
  • Stargazing – Discover constellations and stories hidden within the night sky.
  • Balloon Art – Shape colourful balloons into imaginative creations.
  • Pool Battles & Water Games – Splash into friendly competitions and aquatic adventures.
  • Beach Spike Ball – A fast-paced beach game focused on teamwork and fun.
  • Outdoor Badminton – Enjoy friendly matches under the Maldivian sun.
  • Tennis Clinics – Develop new skills and confidence on the court.
  • Junior Archery – Learn precision, focus and coordination through beginner-friendly archery.
Woman playing with her kid looking at a garden statue. Cheerful woman on a holiday with her daughter showing her a sculpture.

For bookings and further information, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations.jomv@joali.com.

Continue Reading

Awards

Alila Kothaifaru recognised among top 10% of hotels worldwide

Published

on

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, a Hyatt resort, has been recognised with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, placing the resort among the top 10% of hotels worldwide based on reviews and ratings shared by travellers over the past year.

Unlike awards determined by industry panels, the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award reflects the experiences of guests themselves. From memorable marine encounters and thoughtfully curated dining experiences to the genuine hospitality of the resort’s team, the recognition highlights the moments that guests continue to remember long after their stay.

Situated in the pristine Raa Atoll and surrounded by a vibrant house reef, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has become a favourite among travellers seeking a balance of contemporary luxury and meaningful connection with nature. Guest reviews frequently describe the resort as a “slice of paradise,” praising its attentive service, tranquil atmosphere, beautiful villas, exceptional dining, and unforgettable snorkeling experiences.

Many guests have highlighted the warmth and sincerity of the resort’s team, noting how personalised gestures and intuitive service transformed their stay into something truly memorable. Others have shared glowing reviews of the island’s marine life, from encounters with sea turtles, eagle rays and black tip reef sharks just steps from their villa to excursions in search of manta rays and dolphins in the surrounding waters.

The recognition follows the resort’s TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2025, reaffirming its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most highly regarded luxury island retreats.

“What stands out most when reading our TripAdvisor reviews is how closely the island and its people are connected in our guests’ memories. They speak about the turquoise lagoon, the vibrant house reef, and the sense of tranquility they find here, but they also remember the waiter who knew their morning coffee order, the chef who thoughtfully accommodated their dietary preferences, the dive instructor who guided their first underwater adventure, or the villa host who added a personal touch to a special celebration,” said Abdul Salam Ahmed, Guest Experience Manager.

“Luxury is often measured by beautiful villas, exceptional cuisine, or breathtaking scenery. While we are fortunate to offer all of these, true luxury is something far less tangible. It is the luxury of uninterrupted time, of complete peace of mind, and of feeling genuinely cared for by a team that anticipates every need. What resonates most deeply with our guests is not simply what they see, but how they feel when they are here,” said Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives.

Inspired by the stories and feedback shared by its guests, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives continues to shape experiences that celebrate the island’s natural beauty, rich marine environment, and genuine hospitality—creating memories that linger long after the journey home.

Rather than simply being a destination to visit, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives strives to be a place guests return to in their memories and increasingly, in person.

For more information, visit the resort’s website.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright all rights reserved by Maldives Promotion House 2023.